Which of the following best describes a personal surety?

A personal surety is best described as an individual who signs a bond and pledges real estate to secure it. In the context of surety bonds, personal sureties provide a personal guarantee for the obligations of a principal. They typically offer their own assets, such as real estate, as collateral to ensure that the bond’s obligations will be fulfilled. This form of surety is particularly used in situations where the principal may not have sufficient financial resources or creditworthiness to secure the bond through traditional means.

The personal connection involved in this type of bond signifies a higher level of trust and responsibility, as the individual is not only endorsing the bond but also risking their own property as a form of security. This arrangement allows for a more personal commitment to the obligations of the bond, which can be appealing in certain circumstances, such as in construction or contractual agreements where financial security is critical.

In contrast, the other options describe different entities or roles related to surety bonds but do not fit the definition of personal surety. These include professionals or corporations that issue bonds, or government agencies that may regulate these transactions. However, they are not directly involved in the personal, individual pledge that characterizes a personal surety.